ADHD: Understanding the Condition

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting brain development and functioning, particularly in areas responsible for attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It's not a character flaw or poor parenting – it's a genuine medical condition with clear biological foundations.

The condition involves three core ADHD symptoms:

• Inattention: Persistent challenges with focusing and being easily distracted. People might appear forgetful, disorganised, or "spacey."

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• Hyperactivity: Excessive restlessness or feeling "driven by a motor." This can be subtle, like constant foot-tapping or internal restlessness.
   

• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking through consequences, interrupting conversations, or struggling to wait for turns.

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Everyone experiences occasional distractibility, but for people with ADHD, these symptoms persistently impact daily functioning across multiple life areas.

Types of ADHD

Mental health professionals recognise three presentations:

Predominantly Inattentive ADHD involves significant attention difficulties with minimal hyperactivity. People struggle with sustaining focus, following instructions, and staying organised. They might appear "dreamy" or seem not to listen when spoken to directly. This presentation is more common in girls and women, historically leading to underdiagnosis.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type features significant restlessness and impulsivity with fewer attention problems. These individuals may  fidget constantly, talk excessively, and struggle to wait their turn.

Combined Type includes symptoms from both categories and represents the most common ADHD presentation.

ADHD in Children

Childhood symptoms are often first noticed at school and may include:

• Difficulty sitting still during lessons

• Struggling with multi-step instructions

• Frequently losing homework or supplies

• Social challenges with peers

• Academic performance not reflecting true abilities

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ADHD in Teenagers

Adolescent presentations shift as hyperactivity becomes less obvious, such as:

• Academic struggles requiring greater independence

• Increased risk-taking behaviours

• Emotional regulation difficulties

• Time management and planning challenges

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ADHD in Adults

Many adults discover their condition when children are assessed. Challenges may include: 

• Workplace challenges: missed deadlines, disorganisation

• Relationship difficulties from communication issues or forgetfulness

• Financial management struggles

• Chronic stress from trying to meet expectations

• Often undiagnosed until later in life

Myth: "ADHD isn't real – it's just an excuse"

Truth: Brain imaging and genetic studies prove ADHD is a legitimate neurobiological condition with measurable brain differences.

Myth: "Only hyperactive boys have ADHD"

Truth: Girls and women can present with symptoms that are less disruptive and are overlooked but still significantly impact daily life. 

Myth: "People with ADHD can't focus"

Truth: Many experience "hyperfocus" – becoming completely absorbed in interesting activities for hours.

Myth: "ADHD medication creates zombies"

Truth: Properly prescribed medication helps people function effectively whilst maintaining personality and creativity.

Myth: "You'll grow out of ADHD"

Truth: ADHD is typically lifelong, though symptoms may change. . With support, people can manage challenging symptoms effectively.

ADHD brings unique strengths:

• Creativity and innovation: Thinking outside conventional boundaries

• High energy: An asset in dynamic environments

• Hyperfocus ability: Intense productivity with engaging work

• Entrepreneurial qualities: Many successful business leaders have ADHD

• Resilience: Strong coping skills developed through experience

• Empathy: Often highly compassionate and emotionally aware

• Quick thinking: Ability to spot connections others miss